The Dooars region, located in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas in West Bengal, is a gateway to lush forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and tea gardens. Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, serves as the primary starting point for travelers heading to this scenic area. This route is popular among nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and weekend travelers seeking a refreshing break from city life.

This guide covers all practical options to reach Dooars from Kolkata, including train, bus, car, and flight. You will find detailed travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on the best time to visit, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey to this beautiful part of India.

Getting from Kolkata to Dooars – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is one of the most popular and economical ways to reach Dooars from Kolkata. The region is well connected by Indian Railways, with several trains running daily. Trains offer a comfortable journey through scenic plains and foothills.

• Key stations:

  Board trains from Howrah Junction or Sealdah station in Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri (NJP), the nearest major railhead to Dooars. NJP is about 30-40 km from main Dooars towns like Siliguri and Malbazar.

• Distance and duration:

  The rail distance is approximately 560 km, with journey times ranging from 8 to 12 hours depending on the train. Ticket prices vary from INR 300 for sleeper class to INR 1500+ for AC classes.

• Train options and frequency:

  Popular trains include the Padatik Express, Darjeeling Mail, and Kamrup Express. These trains run daily or multiple times a week, offering both day and overnight travel options.

• Comfort and booking tips:

  Booking tickets via IRCTC well in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Sleeper and AC coaches provide decent comfort, and trains have pantry cars for meals.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From NJP, you can take local buses, shared jeeps, or taxis to reach Dooars towns like Malbazar, Chalsa, or Lataguri. Prepaid taxis are available outside the station for safer travel.

• Seasonal advice:

  Avoid monsoon months if possible, as heavy rains can cause delays and slippery tracks in the region.

By Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly and flexible way to travel from Kolkata to Dooars. Several government and private operators run services connecting Kolkata with Siliguri and nearby Dooars towns.

• Departure points:

  Buses leave from Kolkata’s Esplanade or Babughat bus terminals towards Siliguri and Jalpaiguri. From Siliguri, local buses connect to Dooars destinations.

• Duration and cost:

  The journey covers about 560 km and takes 12 to 14 hours by bus. Ticket prices range from INR 400 to INR 800 depending on the bus type (AC/non-AC, sleeper).

• Bus types and comfort:

  Volvo and deluxe buses offer comfortable seating with fewer stops. Ordinary buses are cheaper but less comfortable and slower.

• Frequency and booking:

  Buses run daily, with more frequency during weekends and holidays. Booking tickets online via MSRTC or private portals is advisable for Volvo buses.

• Road routes:

  Buses use NH12 and NH27, passing through Bardhaman and Malda. The roads are generally good but can be congested near Kolkata and Siliguri.

• Travel tips:

  Night buses are common and help save daytime for sightseeing. Carry water and snacks as stops can be brief.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Dooars is ideal for travelers who prefer flexibility and want to explore en route. The route offers scenic views and several interesting stops.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH12 and NH27, covering around 560 km. The drive takes approximately 11 to 13 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Road conditions:

  National highways are mostly well maintained with toll plazas. The stretch near Dooars has winding roads and occasional potholes, so cautious driving is advised.

• Rest stops and attractions:

  Popular stops include Bardhaman for food, Malda for local sweets, and Siliguri for refueling. Tea gardens and forests near Dooars provide scenic breaks.

• Car rental options:

  Several agencies in Kolkata offer self-drive cars or chauffeur-driven vehicles. Booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons.

• Traffic and timing:

  Avoid leaving Kolkata during peak morning hours to escape city traffic. Night driving is possible but not recommended near forested Dooars areas due to wildlife crossings.

• Local driving tips:

  Carry a physical map or GPS device as network coverage can be patchy in remote areas. Keep toll cash handy.

By Flight

While there is no direct flight to Dooars, flying to Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri is the fastest option, followed by road travel to Dooars towns. This is suitable for travelers short on time.

• Flight details:

  Flights from Kolkata to Bagdogra take about 1.5 hours. Airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India operate multiple daily flights.

• Airport connectivity:

  Bagdogra Airport is about 90 km from central Dooars areas. From here, taxis and shared jeeps are available for onward travel.

• Taxi and cab options:

  Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate from Bagdogra. Shared jeep services are cheaper but less comfortable.

• Cost considerations:

  Flight tickets can range from INR 2000 to INR 5000 depending on booking time and season. Road travel from Bagdogra adds another 2-3 hours and INR 800-1500 by taxi.

• Best for:

  This option suits travelers who want to minimize travel time and combine air and road transport efficiently.

• Seasonal notes:

  Flights operate year-round but check for weather delays during monsoon or foggy winters.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Kolkata to Dooars with ease and confidence.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether by train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during holidays or peak seasons, using IRCTC or official bus portals.

• Reach departure point early:

  Arrive at Howrah or Sealdah station at least 30 minutes before train departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform easily.

• Pack essentials for the journey:

  Carry water, snacks, and a light jacket as temperatures can vary. Keep your ID and ticket handy for inspections.

• Plan last-mile transport:

  On arrival at NJP or Bagdogra, pre-book taxis or use prepaid counters to avoid scams. For buses, check schedules for onward travel to your Dooars destination.

• Stay connected:

  Keep a local SIM or portable Wi-Fi device for navigation and communication, especially in remote Dooars areas.

• Prepare for weather:

  Carry rain gear during monsoon and warm clothes in winter. Adjust travel times to avoid night driving in forest zones.

Practical Travel Tips

• IRCTC booking:

  Use the official IRCTC app or website for train tickets. Tatkal quota opens at 10 AM daily for last-minute bookings but fills fast.

• Bus ticketing:

  For Volvo buses, book online via MSRTC or private portals. Carry exact change for local buses as drivers may not have change.

• Local commute in Dooars:

  Shared jeeps and local buses are common but can be crowded. For comfort, hire private taxis or use app-based cabs where available.

• Food and water safety:

  Stick to bottled water and freshly cooked meals. Avoid roadside stalls during heavy rains to prevent stomach issues.

• Luggage handling:

  Keep valuables close during train or bus travel. Use lockable bags and avoid overpacking for easier last-mile transfers.

• Seasonal cautions:

  Monsoon rains can cause landslides and roadblocks in Dooars. Check weather updates and local advisories before traveling.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Kolkata to Dooars is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and the forests are vibrant, ideal for sightseeing and wildlife spotting.

Avoid the monsoon season from June to September due to heavy rains that can disrupt travel and cause slippery roads and train delays.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Kolkata, especially mornings between 8-10 AM and evenings 5-8 PM, to reduce travel time to stations or airports.

• Winter mornings in Dooars can be foggy, causing visibility issues; plan train or road travel accordingly.

• Early morning departures from Kolkata help avoid city traffic and allow more daylight for the journey.

• Plan trips during weekdays if possible to avoid weekend rush on trains and buses.

Arrival at Dooars & What to Expect

Upon reaching Dooars, travelers are greeted by lush greenery, tea estates, and the sounds of wildlife. The region offers a relaxed atmosphere with several small towns like Malbazar, Chalsa, and Lataguri serving as bases for exploring nearby national parks.

Local transport options include shared jeeps, taxis, and buses connecting to popular spots like Gorumara National Park and Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary. Accommodations range from budget lodges to eco-resorts, mostly concentrated near main towns and tourist hubs.

For convenience, use prepaid taxi services at NJP or Bagdogra for onward travel. Within Dooars, renting a vehicle or hiring a local guide can enhance your experience, especially for safaris and nature walks.

Conclusion

Traveling from Kolkata to Dooars is best done by train for a balance of comfort, cost, and scenic views. The direct trains to New Jalpaiguri followed by a short road trip offer a smooth and economical journey. For those pressed for time, flying to Bagdogra and then taking a taxi is the fastest option.

With multiple transport choices and clear travel tips, you can confidently plan your trip to Dooars. This beautiful region awaits with its serene landscapes and wildlife adventures, promising a memorable escape from city life.